State-Wise Guide to India’s Most Popular Traditional Jewellery Types: Kundan, Meenakari, Polki & More

India is a land of diverse cultures, and its traditional jewellery is a dazzling reflection of this heritage. Each Indian state boasts unique jewellery styles that highlight local craftsmanship, history, and cultural pride. From colourful Meenakari work in Gujarat to regal Kundan and Polki designs in Rajasthan, these ornaments are not merely accessories - they are symbols of identity, status, and tradition.

Traditional jewellery in India tells stories of kingdoms, ceremonies, and centuries-old customs. Passed down through generations, these designs remain timeless treasures, seamlessly blending heritage with modern fashion trends.

Why Traditional Jewellery Holds a Special Place in India

• Cultural Significance: Traditional jewellery is deeply tied to weddings, festivals, and rituals, representing social and cultural identity.
• Artistic Craftsmanship: Every piece showcases intricate handiwork, from enamel designs to gemstone settings.
• Timeless Elegance: Many designs, like Kundan and Temple Jewellery , are still popular today, influencing contemporary styles.

Indian States and Their Popular Traditional Jewellery

Here’s a state-wise guide to India’s most cherished traditional jewellery:

Rajasthan

• Popular Jewellery: Kundan, Meenakari, Polki, Thewa
• Highlights: Mughal-inspired patterns, elaborate gold work, vibrant enamel designs.

Gujarat

• Popular Jewellery: Gemstones, Silver, Damani, Pachchikam, Meenakari
• Highlights: Tribal motifs, heavy silver ornaments, colourful enamel techniques.

Punjab

• Popular Jewellery: Punjabi Jhumkas, Kantha Jugni, Tikka, Kalira, Chooda
• Highlights: Bold gold designs, red-white bridal bangles, ornate headpieces.

Haryana

• Popular Jewellery: Hansli, Kunda
• Highlights: Thick gold/silver neckpieces, traditional bridal ornaments.

Uttar Pradesh

• Popular Jewellery: Navratna, Mughal-inspired designs
• Highlights: Gemstone-studded ornaments, royal courtly style.

Madhya Pradesh

• Popular Jewellery: Tribal, Jadau
• Highlights: Silver ornaments with tribal motifs, gemstone-encrusted designs.

Maharashtra

• Popular Jewellery: Thushi, Kolhapuri Saaj, Nath, Bugadi, Tode
• Highlights: Temple-inspired choker necklaces, traditional nose rings.

West Bengal

• Popular Jewellery: Shakha-Pola, Bala and Chur, Panch Lahiri Tikli
• Highlights: Conch shell bangles, gold bangles, forehead ornaments.

Odisha

• Popular Jewellery: Tarakasi (Filigree), Tribal
• Highlights: Fine silver wirework, temple-inspired designs.

Assam

• Popular Jewellery: Junbiri, Dholbiri
• Highlights: Moon-shaped pendants, gold with red/black enamel.

South Indian States

• Tamil Nadu: Temple Jewellery – heavy gold designs, deity motifs.
• Kerala: Mullamottu Mala, Palakka Mala – floral necklaces, enamel leaf designs.
• Karnataka: Kasu Mala, Temple Jewellery – coin necklaces, snake motifs.
• Andhra Pradesh: Nizam Jewellery, Temple Jewellery – diamond-studded gold.
• Telangana: Hyderabadi Pearl Jewellery, Temple Jewellery – exquisite pearls, intricate gold.

Other States

• Nagaland & North-East: Beaded tribal jewellery, silver ornaments, colourful ethnic designs.
• Bihar & Jharkhand: Thewa, Lac, Dokra - brass, bronze, and gold embossed tribal art.
• Goa: Gold jewellery with Portuguese influence, temple designs.
• Himachal Pradesh & Uttarakhand: Silver ornaments, multi-strand necklaces, hill-inspired motifs.
• Sikkim & Arunachal Pradesh: Bright beaded and silver tribal jewellery, influenced by Buddhist culture.

Key Takeaways About Indian Traditional Jewellery

• Traditional jewellery connects people to their roots, reflecting the region’s history and culture.
• Each state’s jewellery represents unique craftsmanship, whether it’s intricate goldwork, enamel designs, or tribal motifs.
• These ornaments blend tradition with modern fashion, inspiring contemporary jewellery designers.
• Owning or wearing such jewellery is a celebration of India’s heritage, making it a timeless treasure.

From the grandeur of Rajasthan’s Kundan and Polki to South India’s temple-inspired gold, Indian traditional jewellery is more than decorative art - it’s a living story of culture, tradition, and timeless elegance. Exploring these designs state by state allows us to appreciate the artistry and history that make Indian jewellery globally admired.